THE head of the region’s specialised domestic violence service has welcomed State and Federal Government funding to manage the expected increase in domestic, family and sexual violence incidents due to COVID-19.
Centrecare Limestone Coast Domestic Violence Service manager Susie Smith said a $2.4m funding boost by the Federal Government would boost South Australia’s frontline family services.
She said the funding, which will be used in part to establish a new 24/7 men’s domestic violence hotline in South Australia, would provide men with advice and help about their use of violence.
“This is really important because we can try and keep women safe from domestic violence, but we need to focus on the perpetrator as well.
“What this will do is put the responsibility back on the perpetrator and connect them with local DV services.”
Along with the $900,000 allocated for the referral line, $1m will be delivered to domestic violence services across South Australia for packages for people experiencing abuse and violence to be used for immediate support including transport, safety upgrades to property, financial counselling and support for children.
State Human Services Minister Michelle Lensink said the brokerage funding would be provided to both metropolitan and regional services to pay for immediate support.
“We know that financial strain is often a barrier for many women leaving dangerous situations,” she said.
“Funding to help women leave, if it’s not safe for them to stay at home, will go some way towards helping them make the right and safest decisions.”
Funding will also be distributed to upskill the current and new workforce, as well as an awareness campaign with the aim of connecting more women with services.
The funding boost to South Australia forms part of the Federal Government’s $150m response package towards supporting Australians experiencing domestic violence due to the fallout from coronavirus.
Earlier this month, the Federal Government launched the Help is Here campaign to direct victims of family and sexual violence to counselling helpline 1800RESPECT.
Men who are concerned about their use of violence will be directed to MensLine Australia.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the campaign had two clear messages – help was available and tough times does not excuse violence in the home.
“It’s fantastic that Australians have been heeding the government’s call to stay at home as much as possible to control the spread of COVID-19,” Mr Pasin said.
“Unfortunately, for many women and children, home is not necessarily a safe place to be.
“It’s important that those at risk of violence know there is free and confidential help available at all hours, every day.”
